The RSPCA has released a selection of images demonstrating the dangers of fishing hooks and lines to animals when they are left lying around.

The renewed plea comes for fishermen to dispose of their equipment properly as recent figures from the RSPCA show that nearly 600 birds and mammals were injured by carelessly discarded hooks and lines in just a month this year.

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In 2016 there were 3,803 reports of wild animals caught in fishing litter, with swans (1,298), geese (1,294), ducks (388) and gulls (395) being the most frequent victims.

And in just one month this year, June, the RSPCA handled 574 reports of animals caught in fishing litter. Deaths to mammals and birds from raging infections inflicted by discarded fishing hooks or from deep wounds where plastic has cut into their body are frequently seen by the RSPCA.

Animals are being injured by carelessly discarded hooks and lines

Strangulation by old fishing line is a common cause of death. Llewelyn Lowen, RSPCA Wildlife Information Officer said: “I would strongly urge those who enjoy fishing to be extra cautious when packing up to make sure no litter is left behind.

"Most anglers are very responsible when disposing of their litter, but it only takes one careless person to endanger the life of an animal. If any member of the public sees discarded litter around if they could pick it up and put it in the bin they may save an animals life.”

“All sorts of litter can cause problems. Line can wrap around necks causing deep wounds in flesh and cutting off the blood supply, hooks can pierce beaks or feet, become embedded in skin or get caught in the bird's throat, and weights can be swallowed causing internal injuries and blockages.”

Animals are being injured by carelessly discarded hooks and lines

This type of injury has been inflicted on animals in Lincoln with one brave lady jumping in the Brayford Pool in July to try and save a cygnets life. Pammi Moss from Coleby jumped into the Brayford when she saw a cygnet struggling as it had fishing wire around its neck.

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Unfortunately even though she gave the animal mouth to mouth it couldn't be saved.

Dilip Sarkar MBE, Angling Trust Fisheries Enforcement Support Service National Enforcement Manager, who is an advisor to the UK National Wildlife Crime Unit and a retired West Mercia Police officer said: “Responsible anglers leave only footprints and care deeply for all wildlife.

Animals are being injured by carelessly discarded hooks and lines

“Indeed, we have worked in partnership with the Swan Convention to issue guidelines regarding what action to take should a swan, for example, ever be found in distress. Moreover, our Volunteer Bailiffs frequently work with our formal partner, the Environment Agency, and police, to report anti-social behaviour and other, wider, offences on our waterways – and often collect litter as a matter of course.

“Unfortunately, as with all things, an irresponsible minority spoil it for everyone, so these people need either educating or prosecuting. Endangering wildlife through any kind of irresponsible behaviour, by anyone, is simply unacceptable.”

Animals are being injured by carelessly discarded hooks and lines

If you see an animal you have concerns about call the RSPCA's emergency line on 0300 123 9999 or for more information visit their website.